Mumbai: In a horrifying terror attack on Tuesday, unidentified terrorists opened fire in the Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir, claiming the lives of at least 26 individuals. Among the dead were tourists, a senior intelligence officer and six residents from Maharashtra who were vacationing with their families.
Details On Victims Hailing From Maharashtra
The victims from Maharashtra have been identified as Atul Mone, Hemant Joshi and Sanjay Lele from Thane’s Dombivali, along with Dilip Desale from Navi Mumbai’s Panvel. Santosh Jagdale and Kaustubh Ganbote from Pune were also confirmed dead. All were part of family groups travelling in the valley when the ambush occurred.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the firing initially began from a distance of nearly 20 feet, though the attackers remained hidden. The precision and coordination of the attack suggest a pre-planned operation. In its wake, national security forces have been placed on high alert.
Konkan Coast On High Alert
Authorities in Maharashtra have intensified security operations, particularly along the Konkan coast. Police have increased surveillance and patrolling across the coastal regions, including the districts of Sindhudurg, Ratnagiri and Raigad, reported Lokmat Times. New check posts have been established, and round-the-clock inspections are underway at all major landing points. Each passing vehicle is being stopped, questioned and thoroughly checked as part of the heightened alert.
Security Measures Ramped Up In Mumbai
Mumbai too has been put on high alert. Following the Pahalgam attack, senior Mumbai Police officials issued instructions to all senior inspectors and zonal Deputy Commissioners of Police (DCPs) to increase vigilance and monitoring, especially in densely populated and sensitive areas. Crowded locations, prominent buildings, transport hubs and religious sites have seen tightened security and increased police presence.
In various parts of the city, citizens observed increased foot patrols, vehicle checks and inspections. Police are conducting random searches and questioning individuals to identify any suspicious movement. Authorities have urged residents to remain calm but vigilant and to report any unusual behavior or unattended items.
